Advanced Cell Biology

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: Richard Rayne
• Assessment: a graphical abstract (15%), topic outline (15%), short-answer question test (15%), two data analysis tests (5% and 20%), data analysis quiz (10%) and topic plan (20%)

This module provides an opportunity for you to expand your understanding of how cells function through detailed analysis of selected topics in cell biology. For each selected topic, the module will challenge you to not only grasp the essential facts and concepts, but also to seek and evaluate evidence on which our knowledge rests, as well as to recognise the current limits of our understanding of complex cellular systems.

indicative module content

• Cell signalling
• The cytoskeleton
• Trafficking/transport of substances into, out of and within cells
• Architecture and functions of the nucleus
• Protein economy in the cell

On completion of this module, you should be able to:

• outline the major nucleic acid processes occurring inside the nucleus
• outline the major functions and structures of the cell nucleus
• outline the major classes of molecular chaperone and their role in protein folding
• analyse and explain, making use of experimental evidence, the interactions of particular proteins with the cytoskeleton
• outline how materials are internalised at the cell surface, and appreciate how signal transduction, cytoskeletal changes and membrane deformation integrate to orchestrate this process
• outline how cells sense, integrate and propagate signals from outside in and understand the basis of signal transduction.